Prime Minister Andy Burnham has launched a nationwide campaign urging passengers to “share the carriage, not the noise” and reminding people to use headphones on trains and buses. Ministers will issue guidance to local transport authorities telling them how to use powers under the Bus Services Act to set and enforce on-board rules, including fines of up to £100 for passengers who refuse to stop nuisance behaviour. The government will pair the guidance with a poster drive discouraging playing music or videos aloud, using loudspeaker calls, and similar disruptions. Officials said drivers will not be expected to enforce the rules; enforcement would fall to transport safety officers or police, and train operators already hold powers to fine up to £1,000. The move follows other politicians’ campaigns, including London mayor Sadiq Khan’s “travel kind” initiative, and follows YouGov polling showing strong voter support for heavy fines for loud music and speakerphone calls. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham called the proposals well meaning but inadequate to protect transport workers from violence and broader challenges they face.
